Rita A. (Carney) Simms

Rita A. Simms (nee Carney), age 100 of Canton, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2024 at the Sachem Center For Health & Rehabilitation in East Bridgewater. Born on November 28, 1923 in Dorchester, MA, Rita’s life was a testament to the enduring power of love and the strength of family bonds. Rita grew up in the close-knit neighborhood of Dorchester. She attended and graduated from the Saint Patrick School in Roxbury, MA. Her early years in the community laid the foundation for the remarkable woman she would become, one dedicated to her family, her work, and the simple joys of life. After completing her education, Rita married and made her home in Canton, where she lived for over 68 years, creating a warm and welcoming place for all who knew her. In her professional life, Rita was known for her warm demeanor, working as a bookkeeper for various entities locally and in Boston. Her colleagues remember her as someone who brought a sense of camaraderie and support to the workplace. Rita’s dedication in her professional life was second only to her commitment to her family. Rita was the wife of the late Lawrence O. Simms and a devoted mother to her children: Lawrence M. Simms and wife Bette Simms of Bridgewater, David Simms of Boston, and the late Wayne Simms and Maryanne Simms-Fitzgerald. She was a loving grandmother to Daniel Fitzgerald and Leana Simms, and a doting great-grandmother to Myles Pappas and Finn McDermott. Rita also leaves behind the fond memories shared with her late siblings, Bernard Carney and Mary Carney Carroll. Her life was a reflection of the love she held for her family. Rita was a constant presence at family gatherings, her laughter and stories a source of joy. She nurtured her children and grandchildren with the same unconditional love she had known in her own upbringing. Everyone knew her as Ma. Rita’s interests were as simple as they were profound. She enjoyed spending time with her family, gardening, and trips with her sister. Her presence was a comforting constant, and her ability to make each family member feel loved and valued was one of her most endearing traits. As we say goodbye to Rita, we celebrate a life well-lived filled with love and kindness. She was a guiding light to her family and a cherished friend to many. Rita’s legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched. She will be dearly missed, but her spirit will remain with us, a beacon of the love and kindness that defined her life. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Service at Dockray & Thomas Funeral Home, 455 Washington Street, Canton on Wednesday, April 24th at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be private.

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